Sara: Bilingual Assistant Principal in Washington, D.C.

Meet Sara—an assistant principal with DC Public Schools.

What's the best or most fulfilling part of teaching language for you?

The most fulfilling part of working in education for me is THE PEOPLE. It’s all about relationships; everything starts with relationships. I start every week and everyday by connecting with people, because education is about the people. I always put relationships before rigor and focus on adding value to others as well as growing others.

What role have languages played in your life outside of the classroom?

Languages have opened so many doors for me and have introduced me to many other cultures. I have traveled extensively and have acquired life skills while learning from other people. I have made long life relationships and become a better human being. In Kathy Escamilla’s words: “When two languages interact, you create a different kind of human being.”

What advice or encouragement would you like to share with aspiring or early-career language educators?

1. First you need to connect with your students, then you can challenge them. I am an optimist, and regardless of how difficult the education journey can be, I always see the light in the eyes of my students. I find encouragement in the lessons where a teacher engages students in productive struggle, in my coaching sessions, or in a conversation that turns a parent into my partner.
2. While you need to be organized and prepared, leadership is a dynamic and adaptive process.
3. Lead by example. Every day is a fresh start, I am a lifelong learner, I walk my talk. Everyone knows I am a huge advocate for Multilanguage learners.
4. I stay true to my values, my why. I reflect on how we can keep motivated regardless of any negative feedback we might receive from students, staff, or families. What are some situations when what we want for a staff member and what they want for themselves are not aligned? How can we motivate them in these scenarios? Answer these questions with your values in mind.

Is there a quote about language learning that inspires or motivates you?

“Through learning language, we learn about culture. Through learning about culture, we learn respect for others. Through learning respect for others, we can hope for peace.” – Anonymous

Complete the thought: "My #LanguageDream for the future is..."

My #LanguageDream for the future is to be part of the movement of exposing, empowering and providing access to languages for all. Language access is about equity. My purpose and journey in the fight for bilingual education. I am proud of my commitment to ensuring that our Latino community has access to high-quality bilingual education. This is not just an initiative; it’s an equity movement. Together, we will champion this cause and pave the way for future generations. Bilingual education for all is a right, and I am dedicated to leading this vital fight.